As we approach the holiday season, the language we use has shifted dramatically since 2020. Terms like “quarantine,” “social distancing,” and “masks” have become part of our everyday conversations. Now, there’s another word that seems harmless but carries significant weight this year: bubble.
Before the pandemic, “bubble” conjured images of childhood and carefree play. Yet now, it can mean the difference between safety and risk, especially during family gatherings. If you ask a group of people about their holiday plans, many might mention hosting a small, “safe” gathering because they’re in the same bubble.
We’ve learned that spending time with the same people consistently can be safer, assuming everyone follows health guidelines. However, many are stretching the definition of their bubbles too far. Once you start including Grandma Betty, Uncle Tom, and your neighbor, that delicate bubble bursts.
What Does a Safe Thanksgiving Look Like This Year?
It means sharing a meal with the people you live with—your household. Not your great-aunt Betty who lives down the road, and definitely not any extended family or friends. They need to stay home and enjoy their own meals to keep everyone safe.
It’s crucial to remember: this is a pandemic year. Hundreds of thousands have died, and it’s essential to think about the health of those we love. As Dr. Nirav Shah from the CDC in Maine puts it, “People’s bubbles are getting big enough to burst.”
I understand the desire to gather with extended family during the holidays, but this year will be different. It’s heartbreaking that Grandma won’t be able to celebrate with us, but her safety comes first.
The temptation to pause COVID and enjoy a feast with family is real, but the virus doesn’t care about our plans. It can spread silently, especially in close quarters, leading to serious consequences for vulnerable family members.
COVID-19 doesn’t take holidays off, and gatherings are a significant risk, especially indoors. Experts, including those from UC Davis Health, advise against in-person gatherings altogether. They recommend sticking to your household and connecting virtually instead.
Instead of risking lives for tradition, we can use technology like FaceTime or Zoom to celebrate with loved ones safely. Remember, unless someone lives with you, they’re not in your bubble, and inviting them over could lead to unintended consequences.
As the situation evolves, many regions are enforcing stricter guidelines, emphasizing that even small gatherings can pose significant risks. The kitchen table has become a potential hotspot, and we must be vigilant.
Don’t be the person who inadvertently spreads the virus because you couldn’t let go of holiday traditions. The stakes are high, and the consequences could be life-changing.
For more tips and insights on navigating these challenging times, check out our other blog posts for valuable information.
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Summary:
The holiday season is approaching, and it’s vital to understand the implications of gathering with family amid the pandemic. While the concept of a “bubble” has changed, it is essential to limit interactions to your household only to keep everyone safe. Experts warn against the risks of indoor gatherings and emphasize the importance of virtual celebrations. Prioritizing health over tradition is crucial this year.